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How to Choose the Right Replacement Windows for Your Home
New windows are designed to keep cold air out and warm air in. They reduce drafts which lowers energy bills and reduces wear and wear on your AC and furnace.
To choose the best windows to replace your home it is important to first understand your goals, needs and wants. You can get started by asking yourself a few easy questions.
Styles
When it comes to replacing windows, there are plenty of styles to pick from. You could be replacing double-hung windows in your house with uPVC ones, for example, or you could be remodeling a period stone cottage with huge expanses of glass replacement for windows and sleek aluminium frames. You could be building an addition and want to select windows that complement the style of your building.
The most common style of replacement windows is the sliding gliding style that offers sleek vertical lines and a contemporary appearance that can be personalized by using shades or blinds between the glass. The gliding style also offers excellent ventilation and allows you to clean your windows from inside the house.
Casement windows are a popular choice. They are easy to open from the top or side which allows you to ventilate your home more efficiently. These windows can either be installed with transoms or without, depending on what you prefer. They’re a great choice for openings that are larger than normal windows, like bow or bay windows.
Awning windows, on other hand, hinge at the top and can be opened like doors. They are ideal for bringing light into an otherwise dark space or for sizing an area. These windows are available with either a crank or fixed handle for effortless opening and closing.
Insert replacement windows are another design you can select for a specific project. These windows are designed to fit in the frame’s opening and keep the original trim and siding. These windows are especially effective for homes with a specific architectural style.
Replacement windows differ from new construction in terms of the brick mold and nailing fin. It’s important to understand the differences between the two types before selecting the right window for your home. Keep in mind that new construction windows can be used on new additions as well as structures with clear openings that do not have existing trim or siding.
If you’re thinking of replacing your existing windows, call a Pella showroom to discuss your options and find the perfect replacement windows for your home. Check out our online gallery of inspiration and browse photos of inspiring replacement windows.
Materials
The frame material that you choose will influence the appearance and performance of your new windows. It’s important to find the right materials based on your budget and design preferences. You have five options that include wood, vinyl aluminum, clad-wood, and clad-wood.
Each type of frame has distinct advantages. Vinyl frames are easy to maintain and cost-effective, while wood has an elegant look that provides superior insulation. Aluminum is a durable material in harsh climates, and clad wood has the look of natural wood, but is able to withstand dents more easily than traditional wooden frames. Wood is an excellent option for log homes, historic homes and Craftsman style homes.
The material you choose for your frame will have a major impact on the appearance and energy efficiency of your home. New window technologies have reduced air infiltration to almost zero and, when paired with the right glazings they can cut down your heating and cooling costs by up to 40%..
Double-hung windows feature two large sashes that move vertically on tracks and are counterbalanced by springs that allow them to open and close. They are favored by homeowners because of their flexibility and ability to be incorporated into a variety of styles of architecture. They are less efficient in energy than other types of windows and their sashes may be corroded or warp with time.
A bow or bay window combine three or four windows into one unit, providing more light and space compared to a conventional single-hung or casement windows. They can be made to order in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit any space. Bay and bow windows are an excellent way to bring more natural light into dark spaces, or creating a dramatic entranceway.
Sliding doors can be a great solution for those who don’t want to open their windows. They can be hung between walls or hung on the wall above the door. They are available in a variety of styles and colors to complement your style.
In-swinging windows require more maintenance since they open inwards instead of outwards. They also aid in preventing air leaks and are effective insulation. In addition to being easy to clean, they’re a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Cutouts
There are many different types of replacement windows you can pick from according to your home’s style and needs. These include picture windows that are stationary and don’t open and are double-hung, casement, and shaped windows. In most cases, you can install these types of windows in place of windows to drastically alter the appearance of a room without any major changes.
During the installation process the window’s screen and sashes as well as the dividing bars are removed, leaving the frame that the new window will slide over. These frames are called “jump frame” because the new window will slide over the old to hide it. If the original frame extends a little into the opening, it may be possible to trim a portion off. However, it’s crucial to not cut off too much of nail fin, which is essential for air and water infiltration.
You might also want to look into full-frame replacement windows for your home. These windows are used to replace windows or to install additional windows. They are fitted with nailing fins made of metal which are usually hidden behind the drywall once the window is installed. They are a great option for older homes since they are similar to the original windows in the house.
When installing full-frame replacement windows in log homes, ensure that the nail fin is in line with the logs surrounding it to stop water from getting into the house. This can be achieved by using caulking products that match the product, or by constructing an enclosure of 2x4s within the opening that is framed, and sealing it against the adjacent logs.
It is important to hire a professional installer if you decide to install an alternative window that has a complete frame. They’ll have the tools and equipment needed to safely work on ladders and scaffolding. Additionally, they’ll be able to install the window so that it is both energy efficient and structurally sound. They will also understand how important it is to perform a thorough check of the window after it has been put in.
Energy efficiency
In addition to aesthetics and ease of use energy efficiency is an important factor when choosing replacement windows and doors windows. Older windows allow cold and heat escape, increasing your energy bills. Modern replacement windows help to regulate temperature and are insulated which reduces the strain on your HVAC. They also allow natural light to penetrate your home, reducing the need for artificial light.
When you are choosing replacement windows, look for the ENERGY STAR label and ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council to determine their energy performance. The higher the rating is, the more efficient the window. Energy STAR certified replacement windows can reduce the cost of cooling and heating by up to 30%.
There are many elements that influence the efficiency of windows, including frame and sash material as well as insulating properties, and glazing materials. For example, wood sashes are more energy efficient than vinyl ones, and wooden frames provide better insulation than aluminum. Double-hung windows have a higher energy efficiency than sliding windows.
In addition to lowering your energy bills The ENERGY-STAR-certified replacement Windows can help protect the environment by cutting greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve the quality of indoor air by decreasing noise pollution. Older windows let outside sounds such as traffic, barking dogs and loud music into your home. New windows cut down on unwanted noise and allow you to relax and unwind in your personal space.
Whether your replacement windows are double-hung, casement, or bay and bow windows, they should be simple to open, close, and clean. Look for tilt-in windows, which let you reach difficult-to-access areas. Windows should have an alarm and that lock securely.
Whether you’re replacing windows in a historic building or simply updating your home, a quality installation is essential. The best replacement windows will aid in reducing energy costs while also increasing comfort and security, and improve the curb appeal of your home. To learn more, visit a showroom or browse through the options on the internet.